Water-Gel Emulsion Compositions and Methods

ABSTRACT

A water-based composition containing oil soluble components may include an anhydrous concentrate and a hydration component, which may be stored in separate vessels prior to mixing. The anhydrous concentrate may be combined with the hydration component to create a consumer product such as a topical cream. The anhydrous concentrate may include a preparation that includes a liquid dispersion polymer, an inverting surfactant and a binding agent, and also may include lipid-soluble vitamins, antioxidants and the like. The hydration component may include water and a preservative system, and also may include water-soluble vitamins, antioxidants and the like. Two forms (i.e. lipid-soluble and water-soluble) of a given ingredient (such as vitamin C) may be provided in the concentrate and the hydration component, respectively. A third vessel may be used for mixing the concentrate with the hydrator and/or dispensing the concentrate, the hydrator and/or the consumer product.

This application claims priority under 35 USC §119(e)(1) of provisionalapplication No. 62/206,703, filed Aug. 18, 2015.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

This invention relates to an emulsion compositions and related methodsand/or packaging including the composition for use in water-basedconsumer products, including but not limited to cosmetics.

2. Related Art

Consumers, cosmetologists, and dermatologists recognize the beneficialeffects of skin care ingredients like retinol and vitamin C. These andother beneficial ingredients are among a class of unstable raw materialsthat are valued for their efficacy in the laboratory but are criticizedin the marketplace due to their short shelf life. Commonly, exposingthese ingredients to oxygen, extreme temperatures, or UV light cause thecompounds to degrade and lose efficacy. Thus, the beneficial impact ofthe product is diminished.

To overcome these issues, cosmetic manufacturers may deliver aconcentrate including various active components to an end user, who thenmixes the concentrate with a predetermined amount of water to create thefinal product such as a jar of skin cream, such as the one described inUnited States Patent Publication No. 2014/0275289. This type of deliverymethod has several benefits for the manufacturer, such as a longershelf-life for the product, simplified manufacturing processes, reducedmaterial usage, reduced shipping costs, and the like. In addition, theconsumer becomes an engaged member of the product creation process bymixing the concentrate with water to generate the final product.Ideally, this process can be fun for the consumer but if the emulsionprocess takes too long or the emulsion does not remain stable for asuitable period of time, the consumer can become frustrated anddissatisfied with the process.

Because of the unstable nature of the active components used in theseformulas, it can be difficult to predict the results of a modificationto an existing product. For example, certain types of emulsificationmethods may work for certain types of oils and vitamins while beingineffective for others. Specifically, it has been found that some typesof polymer preparations and/or emulsifiers may emulsify retinol, but maynot emulsify vitamin C, or vice versa. Similarly, some types of polymerpreparations and/or emulsifiers may emulsify one form of an oil orvitamin but not emulsify other forms. Even seemingly subtlemodifications to a formula may cause the end product to exhibitundesirable characteristics, such as an undesirable viscosity (e.g. toothick or too thin), discoloration, foaming, and the like. This problemis exacerbated by the high concentration levels at which these materialsmay be provided in a given concentrate. And even if a suitable emulsionis formed, separation may occur before even a small amount ofcomposition is used, resulting in an aesthetically unpleasant and/orless effective product.

In addition, providing only an anhydrous concentrate that is mixed withwater alone hinders the ability of a manufacturing to providewater-soluble components that may enhance the desirability of the endproduct.

Accordingly, a need has long existed for improved water-based cosmeticsand methods for delivering the same.

SUMMARY

A method for making a water-based composition containing oil solublecomponents may include an anhydrous concentrate and a hydrationcomponent, which may be stored in separate vessels prior to mixing. Theanhydrous concentrate may be combined with the hydration component tocreate a consumer product such as a topical cream. The anhydrousconcentrate may include a preparation that includes a liquid dispersionpolymer, an inverting surfactant and a binding agent. The hydrationcomponent may include water and a preservative system. The concentratemay include lipid-soluble vitamins, antioxidants and the like, and thehydration component may include water-soluble vitamins, antioxidants andthe like. Two forms (i.e. lipid-soluble and water-soluble) of a giveningredient (such as vitamin C) may be provided in the concentrate andthe hydration component, respectively. A third vessel, such as a jar orthe like may be used for mixing the concentrate with the hydrator and/ordispensing the concentrate, the hydrator and/or the consumer product.

Other systems, methods, features and technical advantages of theinvention will be, or will become apparent to one with skill in the art,upon examination of the figures and detailed description. It is intendedthat all such additional systems, methods, features and technicaladvantages be included within this summary and be protected by theclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood with reference to the followingdrawings and description. The components in the figures are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary apparatus for providing a water-based consumerproduct;

FIGS. 2a-c show a depiction of the steps of preparing the final productfor the exemplary apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows another exemplary apparatus for providing a water-basedconsumer product;

FIGS. 4a-c show a depiction of the steps of preparing the final productfor the exemplary apparatus shown in FIG. 3;

FIGS. 5a-c show another exemplary apparatus for providing a water-basedconsumer product and a depiction of the steps of preparing the finalproduct for that exemplary apparatus;

FIG. 6a-c show another exemplary apparatus for providing a water-basedconsumer product and a depiction of the steps of preparing the finalproduct for that exemplary apparatus; and

FIGS. 7a-c show another exemplary apparatus for providing a water-basedconsumer product and a depiction of the steps of preparing the finalproduct for that exemplary apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The elements illustrated in the figures may interoperate as explained inmore detail below. Before setting forth the detailed explanation,however, it is noted that all of the discussion below, regardless of theparticular implementation being described, is exemplary in nature,rather than limiting.

Referring to the drawings, and initially to FIGS. 1 and 2 a-c, anapparatus or kit for delivering a water-based composition is shown. Inthe illustrated example, the apparatus may include a first vessel 14 forcontaining an anhydrous concentrate and a second vessel 12 forcontaining a hydration component (also referred to herein as ahydrator). The apparatus may also include a third vessel 10 in which theanhydrous concentrate and the hydration component (FIG. 2a ) may bemixed by agitation (FIG. 2b ), creating an end product that may becontained in and/or dispensed from the third vessel 10 a (FIG. 2c ).

The first vessel 14 and/or the second vessel 12 may be airtight vessels,such as ampoules, bottles, tubes and the like to ensure stability of theingredients. In some embodiments, one or both of vessels 14 and 12 alsomay be opaque to insulate the concentrate and/or hyrdrator from bothlight and air exposure, substantially reducing degradation of the activeingredients, e.g., the antioxidants, anti-wrinkle agents and the like inthe case of a cosmetic formulation. In addition, easily oxidizedmaterials in the anhydrous concentrate (such as retinol or vitamin C)may be protected by adding nitrogen or the like to an individual vessel(e.g. ampoule or tube) prior to sealing. The manufacturer may save inmaterial costs as the packaging required for an ampoule may besignificantly smaller than that necessary for a full-sized vessel of thefinished product. Similarly, the manufacturer may realize significantshipping savings.

A kit also may include a stirring device and an applicator device.Stirring device and applicator may be the same article, or the kit mayinclude separate stirring and application components.

In order to prepare the final product, the user may remove the firstvessel 14 from the packaging, open the first vessel 14, and deposit theconcentrate in the third vessel 10 a, as seen in FIGS. 2a-c . The userthen may add the hydrator from the second vessel 14, close the thirdvessel, and shake for a certain length of time. As described above, theaddition of mechanical energy to the concentrate may result in theformation of a stable, emulsion that is ready for use. When shaken by anindividual by hand in a small jar, the shake time may be between about 3seconds and about 20 seconds, preferably less than about 10 seconds, andeven more preferably less than about 5 seconds. The may be sized to holdbetween about a 7 day supply and about a 60 day supply of composition,and preferably about a 30 day supply of composition.

The end-consumer may be permitted to sanitize and re-use the thirdvessels provided in the original apparatus to reduce waste. The suppliermay then provide the end-consumer with an additional set of first andsecond vessels (concentrates and hydrators) rather than shipping them anentirely new third vessel and box, creating a significant wastereduction.

In some embodiments, the anhydrous concentrate may be for use inconsumer products, such as cosmetics. The concentrate preferably is atleast one of freeze, thaw, and temperature stable. As discussed herein,the combination of components, both active and inactive, may beconsidered a preparation or a concentrate.

The concentrate may include a polymer preparation having one or moreliquid dispersion polymers, preferably at least one polyacrylate, aspart of an anhydrous solution. In addition, the polymer preparation mayinclude one or more esters. The polymer preparation also may include oneor more ethers, which may act as surfactants. The polymer also mayinclude one or more emollients. The combination of two or more of thesecomponents may be referred to herein as a polymer preparation.

The concentrate may also include an additional emulsifier. Preferably,the emulsifier includes a hydroxy alkyl group, such ashydroxypropylcocoate PEG-8 dimethicone. In some embodiments, theadditional emulsifier may be Botanisil TE3, sold by Botanigenics ofNorthridge, Calif. The use of an emulsifier with a hydroxyl alkyl groupmay provide strong polar interactions that increase activity with water.

The concentrate may include other components, which may permit it to becustomized or tailored to one or more specific uses, such as one or morelipid-soluble vitamins, anti-oxidants, minerals and the like. Forexample, the concentrate may include one or more lipid-soluble forms ofvitamin C, such as tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (which may be sold underthe trade name “By OSC” by Barnet Products Corporation of EnglewoodCliffs N.J.). The addition of lipid-soluble vitamins, minerals, and thelike may add various benefits to the end product, such anti-oxidantactivity, anti-wrinkle or aging effects, increased product stability,increased hydration and the like.

Other exemplary lipid-soluble vitamins and anti-oxidants may includeascorbyl palmitate, tocopherol, retinol, retinyl palmitate, salicylicacid and the like. Other lipid-soluble vitamins, anti-oxidants, mineralsand the like may also be used.

In some embodiments, the concentrate contains only or substantially onlyoil soluble additional components. In that case, the additionalcomponents may be dissolved in the oil carrier as part of theconcentrate. After the addition of the hydrator, agitation then maystimulate the formation of a gel-matrix emulsion, with the additionaloil soluble ingredients being suspended within the matrix.

Each additional component of the concentrate preferably is and remainschemically separate from the other components, such that the componentsmay not combine chemically with one another—prior to, during, or afteragitation—which may allow each component to retain as much of itsindependent efficacy as possible.

The types and quantities of additional materials within the end productmay be determined based on the purpose for which the concentrate may beused. For example, for final preparations intended to be used topicallyor on the hair, it may be desirable to include oil-soluble beneficialchemicals such as essential fatty acids or tamanu, kukui, lavender,monoi de Tahiti, or argan oils, as well as other components whose usesand relevant concentrations may be known or determined by those ofordinary skill in this art.

For example, in one embodiment, a silky or more luxurious feel may bedesired. As such, the anhydrous solution may include one or more of asilicone, an ester, or a silicone replacement, that may act as anemollient. For example, one preferable ester that may be included isPPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, which may be sold by Croda Inc. under thetrademark CRODAMOL STS LQ. The concentrate may include this or othersilicones, esters, or silicone replacements in order to achieve thedesired feeling.

As discussed below, the formula may be prepared so that the polyacrylatepolymer such as Viscoptima SE, may be dispersed in a carrier oil such asmineral oil containing an ionic or quick-inverting surfactant.Viscoptima SE is a polyacrylate polymer dispersed in an oil carrier witha surfactant. The sodium polyacrylate assists the emulsifier because italso has emulsifying properties. It aids in the inversion of theemulsion by swelling via osmosis and forming a matrix across the oil andwater phases, with very little agitation.

The hydrator may include water and a preservative or preservative systemto protect the hydrator from biological contamination and the like. Thepreservative may be selected based on the purpose for which the endproduct may be used. In some embodiment, the preservative may includephenoxyethanol, capryl glycol, ethylhexylglycerin and hexylene glycol,which may be sold under the trademark Botanistat PF 64 by Botanigenicsof Northridge, Calif.

The hydrator may also include a solubilizer. For example, when used incosmetic creams, the solubilizer may include PEG-12 dimethicone, whichmay be sold under the trademark Botanisil S19 sold by Botanigenics ofNorthridge, Calif. The use of PEG-12 dimethicone may contribute aluxurious feel to a finished cream by, for example, reducing tackinessand/or improving the spread and overall positive feel of the cream.PEG-12 dimethicone may be preferred because it causes reduces and/oreliminates foaming of the hydrator and provides better aesthetics to theformula and overall skin feel than other solubilizers, such aspolysorbate 20 which is usually the solubilizer of choice for mostcosmetic chemists.

The hydrator also may include one or more additional ingredients. Thetypes and quantities of additional materials within the hydrator may bedetermined based on the purpose for which the end product may be used.Exemplary additional ingredients may include aloe vera, glycerin,humectants, hyaluronic acid, butylene glycol, glycolic acid, and thelike. The hydrator also may include water-soluble vitamins,antioxidants, minerals and the like, such as ascorbic acid (preferablyL-ascorbic acid), ascorbyl glucoside, 3-ethyl-ascorbic acid and thelike. In some embodiments, the hydrator also may include extracts thatmay impart skin conditioning or fragrance. Other ingredients may also beadded to the hydrator.

In embodiments including more than about 15% L-ascorbic acid, preferablya gelling agent is provided to suspend the L-ascorbic acid. If nogelling agent is provided in an embodiment having more that about 15%L-ascorbic acid, the end user may be instructed to shake prior to mixingwith the oil phase. In such embodiments, an opaque or tinted (such asamber, cobalt, green and the like) second vessel 14 may be used toprotect the vitamin C from UV light.

In some embodiments, similar types of ingredients may be supplied inboth a lipid-soluble form in the concentrate and a water-soluble form inthe hydrator. For example, a water-soluble form of vitamin C, such asL-ascorbic acid, may be added to the hydrator and an oil-soluble form ofvitamin C, such as tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, may be added to theconcentrate. When using both a water-soluble and oil-soluble form of acomponent, synergistic effects between the two ingredients may berealized. In the above example, the water-soluble L-ascorbic acid mayprovide instant antioxidant benefits, while the oil-solubletetrahexyldecyl ascorbate may provide better penetration of cellularwalls, resulting in increased long-term effects.

In some embodiments, the end product may include both vitamin C andretinol. Because retinol typically is required to be at a pH of higherthan 5 to be stable and most forms of vitamin C are acids that typicallyrequire a pH of below 4, the vitamin C may be provided in the hydratorand the retinol may be provided in the concentrate. The two may then bemixed just before using to provide maximum efficacy, as described belowin connection with various embodiments of packaging and productdelivery.

In other embodiments, pH-neutral forms of vitamin C, such as magnesiumascorbyl phosphate, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, ethyl ascorbate and thelike may be added to the water phase. Because these forms of vitamin Crequire a suspending agent and may discolor the water, they may bedispensed in either an amber or opaque vessel to increase thedesirability of the product.

The polymer preparation may remain inert until it contacts the addedhydration component, at which point the sodium polyacrylate interactswith the combination of the binding agent and surfactant. Use of one ormore carrier oils may affect the type of final product created, i.e.,oils may be used to produce a cream rather than a gel-like feel.Conversely, substantial reduction or omission of the amount of carrieroil used, while retaining the liquid dispersion polymer, the bindingagent, and the surfactant, may result in a final product being a gel orhaving a gel-like consistency.

Upon adding the concentrate to the hydration component and furtheradding mechanical energy to agitate the combination, the surfactant mayemulsify the carrier fluid, and the polymer particles may swell byosmosis. A resulting polymer matrix may be created that entraps theemulsified oil, resulting in the formation of a stable emulsion.

The ratios of hydrator to concentrate may vary depending on the desiredviscosity of the final product. In the case of formulations for topicalapplication, a smaller ratio may yield a higher viscosity, resulting ina more viscous cream that may have a more occlusive, thick texture.Conversely, a larger ratio may yield a thinner cream, which may beuseful in instances of lightweight lotions and the like. In someembodiments in which retinol is used, the ratio of hydrator toconcentrate may be between about 5:1 and about 20:1, preferably betweenabout 8:1 and about 12:1, and even more preferably between about 10:1and about 11:1. In some embodiments in which vitamin C is used, theratio of hydrator to concentrate may be between about 4:1 and about20:1, preferably between about 8:1 and about 12:1, and even morepreferably between about 9:1 and about 10:1.

In various embodiments, an apparatus for making a water-basedcomposition containing oil soluble components may be provided. Theapparatus may include a first vessel for an anhydrous concentrateincluding a liquid dispersion polymer, an inverting surfactant and abinding agent, and a second vessel for a hydration component includingwater and a preservative system. The apparatus may also include a thirdvessel for either (1) the first and second vessels or (2) a productformed by combining the anhydrous concentrate and the hydrationcomponent. For example, the first vessel holds between about 2 mL toabout 5 mL of concentrate and the second vessel hold about 20 mL toabout 50 mL of hydrator and the third vessel has a volume of betweenabout 60 cc and about 150 cc. In some embodiments, the first vessel maybe capable of being placed in a substantially airless state and at leastone of the first vessel and the third vessel may be opaque or UV coated.The third vessel may dispense single dosages of either the anhydrousconcentrate, the hydration component, or both.

In some embodiments, the anhydrous concentrate may include alipid-soluble form of an ingredient, such as vitamin C, and thehydration component may include a water-soluble form of the ingredient.For example, the water-soluble form of the ingredient may be eitherL-ascorbic acid, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, or both, and thelipid-soluble form of the ingredient is tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. Insome embodiments, the anhydrous concentrate may include retinol and thehydration component may include vitamin C.

The anhydrous concentrate may include sodium polyacrylate, ethylhexylcocoate, polysorbate 20, and PPG-3 benzyl ether myristate, and/or anemulsifier that includes hydroxypropylcocoate PEG-8 dimethicone. Theanhydrous concentrate also may include either an antioxidant complex, alipid soluble vitamin, or both. The hydration component may include asolubilizer system that includes PEG-12 dimethicone.

Exemplary Polymer Preparations Polymer Preparation Example 1

In some embodiments, the liquid dispersion polymer may include sodiumpolyacrylate. The preparation also may include an emollient to thepreparation in order to control the aesthetic feel of the end emulsion.For example, PPG-3 benzyl ether myristate may be used as an emollient.One example of this type of polymer preparation, including relevantproportions of each, may be available commercially from CrodaInternational Plc. or Croda Inc. in the form of a rheology modifier soldunder the trademark VISCOPTIMA SE. Polymer preparation example 1 hasbeen found to be particularly useful in formulations including retinol.Exemplary proportions of these components within the polymerpreparation, and the functions for which the components are used, areprovided in the following table:

TABLE 1.0 Polymer Preparation Example 1 Percentage by Chemical Functionweight Sodium Polyacrylate Liquid Dispersion Polymer >50% EthylhexylCocoate Binding agent 25-50% Polysorbate 20 Surfactant 1-5% PPG-3 BenzylEther Emollient 1-5% Myristate

Polymer Preparation Example 2

In other embodiments, blends comprised of a polyacrylamide, bindingagent, and/or surfactant may be used to achieve similar results. Polymerpreparation example 2 has been found to be particularly useful informulations including a lipid-soluble form of vitamin C, such astetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. In some embodiments, the following blend,sold under the trademarks SEPIGEL 305, may be used:

TABLE 2.0 Polymer Preparation Example 2 Percentage by Chemical Functionweight Polyacrylamide Liquid Dispersion Polymer >50% C13-14 IsoparaffinEmollient 25-50% Laureth-7 Surfactant 1-5%

Due to the effectiveness of the polymer preparation, it may be possibleto create a concentrate in which the polymer preparation is a minorcomponent. For example, the polymer preparation may range from betweenabout 8% to about 50% of the concentrate. After the addition ofhydrator, the polymer preparation may range from about 1% to about 5% ofthe final product.

Exemplary Concentrates Concentrate Examples Using Polymer PreparationExample 1

As mentioned above, the polymer preparation may be a component in aconcentrate whose ultimate use may be as a topical cosmetic product. Ina cosmetic product including retinol, the polymer preparation example 1may be between about 5% and about 45% by weight of the concentrate.

In some embodiments, concentrates using polymer preparation example 1may have the following components in the about following exemplaryratios (if the component is present):

TABLE 3.0 Example Concentrate Components Component % range Emollient 27.5-42.35 Polymer Preparation Example 1   25-27.5 Retinol Complex2.65-6.7  Antioxidant Complex 20.00 Additional Emulsifier 10.8-18.3Meadowfoam Seed Oil   0-10.0

Other ranges may also be used. For example, emollient may be provided atbetween about 5% and about 45% of the concentrate, preferably betweenabout 20% and about 35%, and even more preferably between about 25% andabout 30%. As another example, polymer preparation example 1 may be maybe provided at between about 10% and about 45% of the concentrate,preferably between about 20% and about 35%, and even more preferablybetween about 25% and about 30%. A retinol complex may be provided atbetween about 1% and about 37% of the concentrate, preferably betweenabout 2% and about 15%, and even more preferably between about 2.5% andabout 8%. An antioxidant complex may be provided at between about 10%and about 30% of the concentrate, preferably between about 15% and about25%, and even more preferably between about 18% and about 22%. Anadditional emulsifier may be provided at between about 5% and about 25%of the concentrate, preferably between about 10% and about 20%, and evenmore preferably between about 15% and about 18%. Finally, meadowfoamseed oil may be provided at between about 0% and about 15% of theconcentrate and, if present, preferably between about 7% and about 10%.

An exemplary emollient may be PPG-3 benzyl ether myristate, which may besold by Croda Inc. under the trademark CRODAMOL STS LQ.

An exemplary retinol complex may include about 15% retinol incaprylic/capric triglyceride, stabilized with 1% of BHT and sold underthe trademark Retinol 15D by American International Chemical ofFramingham, Mass.

An exemplary antioxidant complex may include oryza sativa (rice) branextract, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) extract, helianthus annuus(sunflower) seed extract and tocopherol, which may be sold under thetrademark Botanessential RRST by DD Chemco, Inc. of Chatsworth Calif.

An exemplary additional emulsifier may be hydroxypropylcocoate PEG-8dimethicone, a water-insoluble alkyl functional silicone polyether,which may be sold under the trademark Botanisil TE-3 by Botanigenics,Inc. of Northridge, Calif.

Example 1 Concentrate

In one embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 4.0 Example 1: Concentrate Component % used Emollient 27.50Polymer Preparation Example 1 27.50 Retinol Complex 6.70 AntioxidantComplex 20.00 Additional Emulsifier 18.30

To create a batch of concentrate example 1, the components may be addedto a vessel in the following order: emollient, polymer preparationexample 1, retinol, antioxidant complex, and additional emulsifier.Next, the components may be mixed with good agitation until they aresubstantially dispersed and homogeneous. Preferably, the components areat low to medium speeds to reduce and/or eliminate aeration. Theresulting concentrate may be an oily liquid that is yellow andunscented. Scent may be added.

Variations of these steps, such as reordering the component additions,mixing between component additions and the like also may be performed.Similar processes may be used to prepare the other concentrate examples.

Example 2 Concentrate

In another embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include thefollowing components at the following levels:

TABLE 5.0 Example 2: Concentrate Component % used Emollient 27.50Polymer Preparation Example 1 27.50 Retinol Complex 6.70 AntioxidantComplex 20.00 Meadowfoam Seed Oil 7.50 Additional Emulsifier 10.80

Due to the meadowfoam seed oil present in Concentrate Example 2 (andConcentrate Example 3), the emulsification process may take longer.

Example 3 Concentrate

In another embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include thefollowing components at the following levels:

TABLE 6.0 Example 3: Concentrate Component % used Emollient 42.35Polymer Preparation Example 1 25.00 Retinol Complex 2.65 AntioxidantComplex 20.00 Meadowfoam Seed Oil 10.00

Concentrate Examples Using Polymer Preparation Example 2

In some embodiments, concentrates using polymer preparation example 2may have the following components in the following exemplary ratios (ifthe component is present):

TABLE 7.0 Example Concentrate Components Component % range Lipid-SolubleVitamin 20-74 Polymer Preparation Example 2  11.1-56.51 AntioxidantComplex 7.48-40.0 Additional Emulsifier 10.000 Emollient   0-7.41

Other ranges may also be used. For example, lipid-soluble vitamins maybe provided at between about 5% and about 75% of the concentrate,preferably between about 15% and about 30%, even more preferably betweenabout 18% and about 25%, and in one example at about 20%. Polymerpreparation example 2 may be provided at between about 10% and about 60%of the concentrate, preferably between about 25% and about 58%, and evenmore preferably between about 40% and about 56%. An antioxidant complexmay be provided at between about 2% and about 40% of the concentrate,preferably between about 7% and about 30%, and even more preferablybetween about 9% and about 20%. An additional emulsifier may be providedat between about 1% and about 30% of the concentrate, preferably betweenabout 3% and about 20%, and even more preferably between about 5% andabout 15%. Finally, an emollient may be provided at between about 0% andabout 15% of the concentrate, preferably between about 2% and about 10%,and even more preferably between about 3% and about 8%.

An exemplary lipid-soluble vitamin may be tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate,which may be sold under the trademark BV OSC by Barnet ProductsCorporation of Englewood Cliffs, N.J. An amount of the lipid-solublevitamin may be provided in the concentrate so as to comprise betweenabout 0.5% and about 10% of the final composition (when mixed with ahydrator), preferably between about 1% and about 6%, and even morepreferably between about 2% and about 3%.

Example 4 Concentrate

In one embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 8.0 Example 4: Concentrate Component % used Lipid-Soluble Vitamin20.000 Polymer Preparation Example 2 56.510 Antioxidant Complex 13.515Additional Emulsifier 10.000

Example 5 Concentrate

In another embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include thefollowing components:

TABLE 9.0 Example 5: Concentrate Component % used Lipid-Soluble Vitamin20.000 Polymer Preparation Example 2 40.000 Antioxidant Complex 40.000

Example 6 Concentrate

In another embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include thefollowing components:

TABLE 10.0 Example 6: Concentrate Component % used Lipid-Soluble Vitamin74.000 Polymer Preparation Example 2 14.810 Antioxidant Complex 7.490Emollient 3.700

Due to the high level of vitamin present in Example 6 (and Example 7),the emulsification process may take longer and the aesthetics of thefinal composition may be less pleasant than a composition formed withExample 1.

Example 7 Concentrate

In another embodiment, an exemplary concentrate may include thefollowing components:

TABLE 11.0 Example 7: Concentrate Component % used Lipid-Soluble Vitamin74.000 Polymer Preparation Example 2 11.110 Antioxidant Complex 7.480Emollient 7.410

Hydrator Examples Hydrator Examples for Use with Polymer PreparationExample 1

Although the following hydrators are described as being for use withconcentrates including polymer preparation example 1, such descriptionis merely exemplary. These hydrators also may be used with concentratesincluding polymer preparation example 2 or other polymer preparations

In some embodiments, concentrates using polymer preparation example 1may have include one or more of following components in the followingexemplary ratios (if the component is present):

TABLE 12.0 Example Hydrator Components Component % used Water 75-93Moisturizer 1 5.5-11  Aloe Vera 0.44-0.5  Preservative System  1.-1.1Butylene Glycol 10.00 Emulsifier 0.25-1.0  Fragrance/Extract 0.01-1.5 Emollient  0.50

An exemplary moisturizer (moisturizer 1) may include water, chondruscrispus extract, and sodium hyaluronate, which may be sold under thetrademark Marimoist by Biocogent of Stony Brook, N.Y. Another exemplarymoisturizer (moisturizer 2) may include plyrus malus (apple) fruitextract and glycerin, which may be sold under the trademark BotanimoistAMS by Botanigenics, Inc. of Northridge, Calif.

Aloe vera may be provided in a gel form, such as an about 200%concentrated powder that forms a juice when combined with water.

An exemplary preservative system may include phenoxyethanol, caprylglycol, ethylhexylglycerin and hexylene glycol, which may be sold underthe trademark Botanistat PF 64 by Botanigenics of Northridge, Calif.

An exemplary emulsifier may be a copolymer of a polydimethylsiloxane anda polyoxyalkylene ether, such as PEG-12 dimethicone, which may be soldunder the trademark Botanisil S-19 Premium by Botanigenics, Inc. ofNorthridge, Calif.

Exemplary fragrances/extracts may include, for example, essential plantextracts that may provide a beneficial fragrance. In some embodiments,one or more of the following fragrances may be used: HydroessentialCitrus Limon 20.3709 (Fragrance 1), Hydroessential Lavandula 20.3031(Fragrance 2) sold by Vevy Europe S.p.A. of Genova, Italy; Juicy LemonFragrance 91-1030-97 (Fragrance 3) sold by The Lebermuth Co. of SouthBend, Ind.; Lavender Oil 40/42 (Fragrance 4) sold by The Lebermuth Co.of South Bend, Ind.; Hydroprime Lavender LAQ (Fragrance 5) sold byMeL-Co of Hobbs, N. Mex.

An exemplary emollient may be caprylyl methicone, which may be soldunder the trademark Botanisil CPM 10 by Botanigenics of Northridge,Calif.

Ranges other than those specified in Table 12.0 also may be used. Forexample, water may be provided at between about 65% and about 99% of thehydrator, and preferably between about 75% and about 93%. Moisturizer 1may be provided at between about 0% and about 80% of the hydrator,preferably between about 2% and about 20%, and even more preferablybetween about 4% and about 15%. Aloe vera may be provided at betweenabout 0% and about 1.5% of the hydrator, preferably between about 0.1%and about 1.3%, and even more preferably between about 1% and about1.1%. Preservative may be provided at between about 0.5% and about 2% ofthe concentrate, preferably between about 0.8% and about 1.5%, and evenmore preferably between about 1% and about 1.2%. Butylene glycol may beprovided at between about 0% and about 20% of the hydrator, preferablybetween about 5% and about 15%, and in one example at about 10%.Emulsifier may be provided at between about 0% and about 2% of thehydrator, preferably between about 0.1% and about 1.5%, and even morepreferably between about 0.25% and about 1%. Fragrance may be providedat between about 0% and about 2% of the hydrator and preferably betweenabout 0.01% and about 1.5%. Finally, emollient may be provided atbetween about 0% and about 2% of the hydrator, preferably between about0.1% and about 1.5%, and even more preferably between about 0.4% andabout 0.75%.

Example 8 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 13.0 Example 8: Hydrator Component % used Water 76.79 Moisturizer11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.44 Preservative System 1.10 Butylene Glycol 10.00Emulsifier 0.65 Fragrance 1 0.01 Fragrance 2 0.01

An exemplary process for creating a batch of hydrator example 1 will nowbe explained. First, the water, and preferably deionized water, may beadded to a tank, followed by the moisturizer and aloe vera. Next, thecomponents may be mixed with good agitation until they are substantiallydispersed and homogeneous. Then, a premix of the preservative system andthe butylene glycol is prepared in which the components may be mixedwith good agitation until they are substantially dispersed andhomogeneous. The emulsifier may then be added to the premix and thecomponents again may be mixed with good agitation until they aresubstantially homogeneous. Next, the premix may be added to the tank andthe mixture may be mixed with good agitation until the components aresubstantially homogeneous. Finally, the fragrances may be added to themixture, one at a time, mixing the resulting mixture with good agitationuntil the components substantially homogenous between each addition. Theresulting hydrator may be a liquid that is clear to slightly hazy inappearance, a citrus/floral smell and a pH of about 5.0 to about 5.5.

Variations of these steps, such as reordering the component additions,mixing between component additions and the like also may be performed.Similar processes may be used to prepare the other hydrator examples

Example 9 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 14.0 Example 9: Hydrator Component % used Water 76.80 Marimoist11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.44 Preservative 1.10 Butylene Glycol 10.00Emulsifier 0.65 Fragrance 1 0.01

Example 10 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 15.0 Example 10: Hydrator Component % used Water 76.80 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.44 Preservative System 1.10 Butylene Glycol10.00 Emulsifier 0.65 Fragrance 2 0.01

Example 11 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 16.0 Example 11: Hydrator Component % used Water 76.80 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Butylene Glycol10.00 Emulsifier 0.75 Fragrance 3 0.10

Example 12 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 17.0 Example 12: Hydrator Component % used Water 76.89 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Butylene Glycol10.00 Emulsifier 0.50 Fragrance 4 0.10

Example 13 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 18.0 Example 13: Hydrator Component % used Water 75.45 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Butylene Glycol10.00 Emulsifier 0.45 Fragrance 5 1.50

Example 14 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 19.0 Example 14 Hydrator Component % used Water 74.40 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Butylene Glycol10.00 Emulsifier 3.00

The presence of the emollient may improve the overall aesthetics of thehydrator and/or final composition.

Example 15 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 20.0 Example 15: Hydrator Component % used Water 85.90 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Emollient 0.50Emulsifier 1.00

Example 16 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 21.0 Example 16: Hydrator Component % used Water 87.13 Moisturizer1 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Emulsifier 0.275

Example 17 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 22.0 Example 17: Hydrator Component % used Water 92.63 Moisturizer1 5.50 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Emulsifier 0.275

Example 18 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 23.0 Example 18: Hydrator Component % used Water 87.13 Moisturizer2 11.00 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.10 Emulsifier 0.275

Example 19 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 24.0 Example 19 Hydrator Component % used Water 92.75 Moisturizer2 5.50 Aloe Vera 200x 0.50 Preservative System 1.00 Emulsifier 0.250

Example 20 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 25.0 Example 20: Hydrator Component % used Water 67.891Moisturizer 2 5.000 Aloe Vera 200x 0.387 L-Ascorbic Acid Micronized15.000 Preservative System 1.100 Butylene Glycol 10.000 Emulsifier 0.650Fragrance 1 0.010 Fragrance 2 0.010

Example 21 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 26.0 Example 21: Hydrator Component % used Water 62.913Moisturizer 2 5.000 Aloe Vera 200x 0.317 L-Ascorbic Acid Micronized20.000 Preservative System 1.100 Butylene Glycol 10.000 Emulsifier 0.650Fragrance 1 0.010 Fragrance 2 0.010

Hydrators for Use with Polymer Preparation Example 2

Although the following hydrators are described as being for use withconcentrates including polymer preparation example 2, such descriptionis merely exemplary. These hydrators also may be used with concentratesincluding polymer preparation example 1 or other polymer preparations.

TABLE 27.0 Example Hydrator Components Component % used Water 76-78Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 5.000 Moisturizer 2 5.000 Moisturizer 111.000 Aloe Vera 200x 0.387-0.44  Preservative System 1.100 ButyleneGlycol 10.000 Emulsifier 0.65-1   Fragrance 1 0.010 Fragrance 2 0.010

Ranges other than those specified in Table 25.0 also may be used. Forexample, water may be provided at between about 65% and about 99% of thehydrator, and preferably between about 75% and about 93%. Magnesiumascorbyl phosphate may be provided at between about 0% and about 10% ofthe hydrator, preferably between about 2% and about 8%, and even morepreferably between about 4% and about 6%. Moisturizer 2 may be providedat between about 0% and about 80% of the hydrator, preferably betweenabout 2% and about 20%, and even more preferably between about 4% andabout 15%. Moisturizer 1 may be provided at between about 0% and about80% of the hydrator, preferably between about 2% and about 20%, and evenmore preferably between about 4% and about 15%. Aloe vera may beprovided at between about 0% and about 1.5% of the hydrator, preferablybetween about 0.1% and about 1.3%, and even more preferably betweenabout 0.3% and about 0.6%. Preservative may be provided at between about0.5% and about 2% of the concentrate, preferably between about 0.8% andabout 1.5%, and even more preferably between about 1% and about 1.2%.Butylene glycol may be provided at between about 0% and about 20% of thehydrator, preferably between about 5% and about 15%, and in one exampleat about 10%. Emulsifier may be provided at between about 0% and about2% of the hydrator, preferably between about 0.1% and about 1.5%, andeven more preferably between about 0.5% and about 1%. Finally,fragrance(s) may be provided at between about 0% and about 2% of thehydrator and preferably between about 0.01% and about 1.5%.

Example 22 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 28.0 Example 22: Hydrator Component % used Water 76.790Moisturizer 1 11.000 Aloe Vera 200x 0.440 Preservative System 1.100Butylene Glycol 10.000 Emulsifier 0.650 Fragrance 1 0.010 Fragrance 20.010

Example 23 Hydrator

In one embodiment, an exemplary hydrator may include the followingcomponents:

TABLE 29.0 Example 23: Hydrator Component % used Water 77.493 MagnesiumAscorbyl Phosphate 5.000 Moisturizer 2 5.000 Aloe Vera 200x 0.387Preservative System 1.100 Butylene Glycol 10.000 Emulsifier 1.000Fragrance 1 0.010 Fragrance 2 0.010

The presence of Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate may increase the time ofthe emulsification process up to about 20 seconds and/or alter thephysical appearance of the hydrator.

Exemplary Combinations of Concentrates and Hydrators

The previous exemplary concentrates and hydrators may be combined invarious combinations, typically at a ratio of hydrator to concentrate atabout 10:1. For example, concentrates of either example 1 or example 2preferably may be combined with any of hydrators of examples 8-10 or20-21. As another example, the concentrate of example 3 preferably maybe combined with any of the hydrators of examples 10-19. As still afurther example, concentrates of either of examples 4-7 preferably maybe combined with any of the hydrators of examples 22-23. Thesecombinations are merely exemplary and other combinations of concentratesand hydrators also may be used.

Exemplary Final Product

When about 3 mL of the concentrate of example 1 is mixed with about 30mL of the hydrator of example 8 and agitated (e.g. shaken) for about 5second, a stable emulsions of about 30 grams of a cream having a whiteto off-white color, a pH of about 5.5, a specific gravity of about 1.0and a citrus, floral odor is formed. The cream may remain stable for atleast 30 days. A consumer may apply about 1 gram of the cream topically,once daily, preferably at night. The cream may possess the followingcomponents:

TABLE 30.0 Exemplary Final Product Formulation Originating INCI Name:Component: % Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Aloe Vera and Water 78.8481Butylene Glycol Butylene Glycol 8.9550 PPG-3 Benzyl Ether MyristatePolymer Preparation 2.9563 Example 1 and Emollient HydroxypropylcocoatePEG-8 Additional Emulsifier 1.8300 Dimethicone Sodium PolyacrylatePolymer Preparation 1.4300 Example 1 Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran ExtractAntioxidant Complex 1.4000 Ethylhexyl Cocoate Polymer Preparation 1.0313Example 1 Retinol Retinol Complex 0.1005 Chondrus Crispus ExtractMoisturizer 0.5940 Sodium Hyaluronate Moisturizer 0.0099 Citrus LimonFruit Extract Fragrance 1 0.0090 Lavandula Angustifolia Flower/Fragrance 2 0.0090 Leaf/Stem Extract Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower)Antioxidant Complex 0.2000 Extract Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary)Antioxidant Complex 0.2000 Leaf Extract Tocopherol Antioxidant Complex0.2000 PEG-12 Dimethicone Emulsifier 0.5850 Polysorbate 20 PolymerPreparation 0.0825 Example 1 Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride RetinolComplex 0.5695 Phenoxyethanol Preservative 0.4950 Caprylyl GlycolPreservative 0.2475 Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative 0.1238 HexyleneGlycol Preservative 0.1238Other percentages may also be used. For example, another exemplarycomposition including some of the components above may include betweenabout 0.1% and about 1% retinol, between about 1% and about 2% sodiumpolyacrylate, between about 1% and about 3% hydroxypropylcocoate PEG-8dimethicone, between about 0.5% and about 2% binding agent, betweenabout 0.05% and about 0.12% surfactant, between about 1% and about 5%emollient, between about 0.5% and about 4% antioxidant complex, and atleast about 60% water. An another example, a composition may includebetween about 0.5% and about 5% vitamin C, between about 1% and about 4%polyacrylamide, between about 0.25% and about 3% hydroxypropylcocoatePEG-8 dimethicone, between about 0.05% and about 0.12% surfactant,between about 0.5% and about 2% emollient, between about 0.5% and about4% antioxidant complex, and at least about 60% water.

Packaging, Distribution, and Use

FIGS. 3-7 a-c show other embodiments of apparatuses for providingwater-based consumer products and depictions of the steps of preparingthe final product with each exemplary apparatus. For example, in FIGS. 3and 4 a-c, the apparatus may include an opaque bottle 10 b. The bottle10 b may have a substantially airless chamber 11 in which theconcentrate and the hydrator may be mixed (shown in FIGS. 4a-c ). Byprotected it from air and light, the chamber increases the stability ofthe mixture over time and reduces its degradation rate.

In another example (shown in FIGS. 5a-c ), the concentrate and hydratormay be provided in separate vessels 22 and 26, such as the illustrateddual tubes with corresponding dual pumps 24 and 28. These may bedispensed simultaneously into the customers' hand and blended manually(FIGS. 5b-c ). The customer may emulsify the system by rubbing thesystems together in their hands. This agitation has a similar effect toshaking the two phases together in a jar.

These exemplary packaging options may reduce the number of pieces in theapparatus and provide both extra convenience to the customer and areduced cost to ship (reduced volume in transit). Because the end usermay activate the emulsion just before use, the potency of the productmay be increased or sustained. As noted above, when a customer activatesa full jar (such as about 30 grams, for example) of a product containingretinol, the product begins to degrade immediately and could be about10% less effective within about 30 days. By mixing each single orindividual dose in their hands, the user may experience better efficacy.Instructions for single (individual) dosages may be provided.

Other exemplary apparatuses for dispensing various amounts concentratesand hydrators for an individual dosage of an end product are shown inFIGS. 6a-c and 7a-c . In the illustrated embodiments, the third vesselsmay be squeeze bottles 30 and 40 that dispense varying dosages of theconcentrate and hydrator. The first and second vessels may be chambers32 and 42 that contain the concentrate may be separate from chambers 34and 44 a-b that contain the hydrator. When compressed, the bottles 30and 40 may dispense corresponding amounts of the concentrate andhydrator, which may be mixed, for example, in the user's hands asillustrated in FIGS. 6b-c and 7b -c.

All documents cited herein are, in relevant part, incorporated herein byreference; the citation of a document is not, however, to be construedas an admission that it is prior art with respect to the presentinvention. To the extent that there is a conflict between the use of aterm in this application and a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition in this application should be applied. Whileparticular embodiments of the present invention have been illustratedand described, changes and modifications can be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention.

While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many moreembodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of theinvention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except inlight of the attached claims and their equivalents.

1. A method for providing a kit for making a water-based compositioncontaining oil soluble components, the method comprising: providing, ina first vessel, oil soluble components comprising between about 2 mL andabout 5 mL of anhydrous concentrate including a liquid dispersionpolymer with an inverting surfactant; providing, in a second vessel,between about 20 mL and about 50 mL of a hydration component includingwater and a preservative system comprising phenoxyethanol, caprylglycol, ethylhexylglycerin and hexylene glycol; providing instructionsto agitate the anhydrous concentrate with the hydration component tomake an emulsion.
 2. A method according to claim 1, where the anhydrousconcentrate includes a polymer preparation of between about 20% andabout 35% by weight of the concentrate, retinol of between about 2% andabout 15% by weight of the concentrate, and an additional emulsifier ofbetween about 10% and about 20% by weight of the concentrate.
 3. Amethod according to claim 2, where the polymer preparation includes atleast about 30% of the liquid dispersion polymer, at least about 10% byweight of the binding agent, at least about 1% by weight of theinverting surfactant and at least about 1% by weight of an emollient. 4.A method according to claim 3, where the liquid dispersion polymer issodium polyacrylate.
 5. A method according to claim 1, where theanhydrous concentrate includes a polymer preparation of between about25% and about 60% by weight of the concentrate, a lipid-soluble vitaminof between about 5% and about 30% by weight of the concentrate, and anadditional emulsifier of between about 5% and about 20% by weight of theconcentrate.
 6. A method according to claim 5, where the polymerpreparation includes at least about 30% by weight of the liquiddispersion polymer, at least about 1% by weight of the invertingsurfactant and at least about 10% by weight of an emollient.
 7. A methodaccording to claim 6, where the liquid dispersion polymer ispolyacrylamide.
 8. A method according to claim 1, where the anhydrousconcentrate include a lipid-soluble form of an ingredient and thehydration component includes a water soluble form of the ingredient. 9.A method according to claim 8, where the ingredient is vitamin C.
 10. Amethod according to claim 9, the water-soluble form of the ingredient iseither L-ascorbic acid, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, or both, and thelipid-soluble form of the ingredient is tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate.
 11. Amethod according to claim 1, where the anhydrous concentrate includesretinol and the hydration component includes vitamin C.
 12. A methodaccording to claim 1, where the first vessel dispenses single dosages ofthe anhydrous concentrate and the second vessel dispenses single dosagesof the hydration component.
 13. (canceled)
 14. A composition comprising:between about 0.1% and about 1% by weight of retinol; between about 1%and about 2% by weight of sodium polyacrylate; between about 1% andabout 3% by weight of hydroxypropylcocoate PEG-8 dimethicone; betweenabout 0.05% and about 0.12% by weight of a surfactant; between about 1%and about 5% by weight of an emollient; between about 0.5% and about 4%by weight of an antioxidant; and at least about 60% by weight of water,where the binding agent assists in a binding of the sodium polyacrylateand the surfactant.
 15. A composition comprising: between about 0.5% andabout 5% by weight of vitamin C; between about 1% and about 4% by weightof polyacrylamide; between about 0.25% and about 3% by weight ofhydroxypropylcocoate PEG-8 dimethicone; between about 0.05% and about0.12% by weight of a surfactant; between about 0.5% and about 2% byweight of an emollient; between about 0.5% and about 4% by weight of anantioxidant; and at least about 60% water.
 16. The method of claim 1,further comprising: providing a third vessel; providing instructions toadd the anhydrous concentrate and the hydration component to the thirdvessel; and providing instructions to agitate the anhydrous concentrateand the hydration component after they have been added to the thirdvessel.
 17. The method of claim 2, where the compound is retinol.